2017 is shaping up to be a very exciting year for the Animal Health Trust (AHT), the UK’s leading veterinary and scientific research charity, which is celebrating its 75th Anniversary.

The team at The Animal Health Trust celebrate with a birthday cake

The AHT was founded in 1942 by vet Reginald Wooldridge, who wanted to see veterinary medicine advance at the same pace as human medicine. His vision led to the AHT owning Europe's first dedicated veterinary MRI machine, as well as being one of the first laboratories in the world to offer DNA testing for inherited diseases in dogs. In 2012 the AHT opened the only centre in Europe with a purpose-built Cancer Centre to deliver radiation therapy to dogs, cats and horses.

The Trust is the leading UK charity where research and treatment are carried out in one place. What makes the AHT particularly special is every penny of profit made is re-invested into lifesaving research.

To mark the Anniversary, the AHT were joined at its base in Kentford, near Newmarket, by some of its most passionate supporters and grateful clients. Fundraisers exchanged stories on how their training was going for events such as the London Marathon; whilst clients were re-united with the vets that helped their pets continue to be in such good health. Guests also had the opportunity to look behind the scenes at the AHT, to see where and how the dedicated vets and nurses provide such excellent care for very sick and injured dogs, cats and horses.

“We’re so excited about celebrating our 75th Anniversary this year, “ says AHT's CEO, Dr Vaudin, “we’re often the unsung hero when it comes to animal health, so we hope our ambassadors here today will help us spread the word about all the amazing things we’ve achieved – and hope to – throughout the rest of the year. ”

To continue the celebrations, the AHT has a packed calendar of events throughout the year. These include its annual Charity Race Day at Newmarket’s July Course (10 June) and UK Equestrian Awards in London (31 October). Through these events, and with the support of fundraisers and animal lovers, the AHT has set itself the ambitious target of raising an additional £75,000 this anniversary year, through events and challenges. This money will go towards buying a new MRI machine. The total cost for this is £400,000, which will be raised through a combination of direct mail appeals, grant applications and the £75,000 anniversary campaign.

To find out more, or if you want to get involved in the celebrations visit www.aht75.org.uk